The following information is provided by county government officials. It is also available on the county information website, www.vcemergency.com :

This Memorial Day weekend, the county of Ventura extends a sincere thank you to all of those who have served our country and we remember those who have made the ultimate sacrifice. Thank you for your dedication, courage and service. It is so important that we connect our brave veterans to benefits that they are entitled to. If you have questions about federal and state VA benefits, please call 805-477-5155 or visit www.vchsa.org/veterans .

Safety Tips for the Weekend

Even as our economy gradually reopens and the weather warms, we must stay vigilant about COVID-19 by:

— Shopping, hiking, biking and exploring locally if you do venture out

Sticking close to home

To protect you, your family, and those in our communities who are at particular risk for severe outcome or death if they develop COVID 19, we should all stick close to home.

The roads and highways may look a bit more crowded than in recent weeks, but travel restrictions are still in place. You should not take road trips or travel far from home.

Staying safe by following Public Health guidance

While summer is upon us, this is not the time to mix with people outside your immediate household — and when you do venture out, keeping physical distance is key!

You can still have a barbecue with your household and enjoy some fun in the sun. But do limit the people you choose to spend time with — you should only be around those in your household, and remember that older people and those with pre-existing health conditions should continue to isolate inside their homes.

Continue to avoid crowded spaces. Beaches and trails are open, but we must use them safely.

If you go out in public, be sure to practice social distancing of at least 6 feet. You should take these precautions any time you are out, whether you are in an enclosed space or taking a walk around the neighborhood.

Think of it as an act of kindness you can do every day to protect your health and the health of those around you.

Shopping and exploring locally

Gradual movement on the path to reopening is intended to reintroduce activities and sectors in a phased manner and with necessary modifications, in order to protect public health.

Still, you should leave your home for essential needs like getting groceries and medications.

Another option that is now available – shop locally! You may have noticed that some of your favorite shops and restaurants are open for business with additional precautions.

This is a good opportunity to show your support. Just do so responsibly!

Every day, we are making progress, but it is up to all of us to do our part to be alert, stay safe, and reduce risks.